click here to view a video statement from our director

Tips for Staying Alert During Road Trips

Commercial truck drivers are already faced with a set of challenges that comes with making deliveries on time. But in addition to that, you have to battle fatigue during long road trips. With driver fatigue being the number one cause for wrecks, it is important to stay alert so that you do not put yourself or others at risk. Take a look at our list of top ways to combat fatigue and stay alert so you don’t run into any issues down the road.

Pick Healthy Food Options

Have you ever felt sluggish after eating fast food? There is a reason for that. The ingredients that make up fast food typically are not nutritious or good for your body. It may taste good but really it doesn’t benefit you. On the other hand, when you eat healthier foods filled with antioxidants, protein, and other substances to help keep your energy levels up, you will feel much better and more alert. Consider swapping out snack items such as salty chips for fresh fruits and vegetables that are packed with nutrients that are good for you. It will make a bigger difference to your energy levels than you might think.

Drink More Water!

Water is essential to ensuring good health. It has so many benefits that keep your body running properly. While coffee may be good for keeping you awake and alert, having too much can really damage your body. Instead, try to keep hydrated with the right amount of daily water consumption. Some recommend to drink eight glasses of water per day, but the correct amount really depends on your size and weight. Without enough water, you could risk being dehydrated which comes with risks such as unclear thinking, overheating, mood changes, and more. The same can be said if you drink too much water where you develop headaches and fatigue. Finding the right balance can really help so you avoid all of these hazardous symptoms that could really impact your driving.

Get Plenty of Sleep

One of the best ways to staying alert is by making sure you get plenty of sleep the night before. If not, your thinking and concentration may be all over the place which is very risky when making deliveries. In fact, fatigue is the top reason for car or truck accidents. If you know you have an upcoming delivery run that will require you to be on the road for a long period of time, save yourself the trouble by going to bed on time the night before. Some ways to ensure you obtain adequate rest is by limiting your screen time before going to bed, relaxing by a noisemaker, or, if the noise is too disruptive, use earplugs to mute any noise. You will feel more alert and ready to take on the day with a good night’s sleep.

Take Breaks as Needed

While making deliveries on time is very important, what’s more important is that you do not ignore your health in order to make the delivery. Skipping out on a rest stop when you’re tired will wear you down quickly. If you don’t get the right amount of rest time, you won’t be as alert which puts you and other drivers at risk.